Hypoallergenic has been around since at least the 1950s. The term hypoallergenic first appeared in an advertisement in 1953 but may have appeared as early as 1940. Some dog breeds cause fewer allergic reactions than others. Thus hypoallergenic dogs were born. But what does hypoallergenic mean, and is it worth it? Let’s find out.
What Does Hypoallergenic Mean?
The short answer is that the “hypoallergenic” meaning is that the animals or products (such as cosmetics) are safe for allergy sufferers.
What most people don’t understand is that if you get a hypoallergenic dog, you won’t have any allergies to the pup.
Unfortunately, that’s not the case.
While hypoallergenic dogs will allow you to have less of a reaction, you can still feel your allergies during shedding season. Also, if your doggo gives you plenty of kisses on the face or sleeps in bed with you, you can be sure that you’ll have a slight reaction later.
How Are People Allergic To Dogs?
A common misconception about dog allergies is that people are allergic to the dog’s fur. However, that’s not the case at all. An allergen can get into your dog’s fur, thus giving you a reaction. But it’s not the fur itself that you’re reacting to.
So, what causes dog allergies?
Dogs discharge specific proteins in their dander (also known as dead skin), saliva, and urine. These are what you have an allergic reaction to.
What happens is that when a dog has an accident in the house, they shed, they lick their fur, or they lick anything or anyone else in the house. They’re spreading these proteins.
Luckily, these proteins are harmless. However, some people are allergic to it. When a dog licks their fur, and then they shed, it ends up on you, your furniture, your clothes, and everywhere else.
Some dogs shed more than others. Also, different dog breeds have different types of coats. So, you might be more allergic to one kind of dog breed than another.
Of course, this is where hypoallergenic dogs come in. Some dogs have a short coat or are hairless, which causes them to have less shedding. Thus, less spreading of these proteins.
Are There Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds?
There’s an extensive list of hypoallergenic doggos. So, if you have any allergens to dogs, you can probably find a hypoallergenic puppy that will aid your health and fit in with your family and lifestyle.
For instance, look at the chart below to see all the hypoallergenic purebred dogs.
| List of Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds | ||
|---|---|---|
| Affenpinscher | Afghan Hound | American Hairless Terrier |
| Barbado da Terceira | Bedlington Terrier | Bichon Frise |
| Bolognese | Chinese Crested | Coton de Tulear |
| Giant Schnauzer | Irish Water Spaniel | Kerry Blue Terrier |
| Lagotto Romagnolo | Lowchen | Maltese |
| Miniature Schnauzer | Peruvian Inca Orchid | Poodle (Miniature) |
| Poodle (Standard) | Poodle (Toy) | Portuguese Water Dog |
| Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka | Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier | Standard Schnauzer |
| Xoloitzcuintli | Yorkshire Terrier |
Are Mixed Breeds More Hypoallergenic Than Purebred Dogs?
Whether the dog is a purebred or a mixed breed, whether they’re hypoallergenic or not, usually depends on the amount of shedding and their coat type.
For example, Poodles are often hypoallergenic because of their low-shedding coat with tight curls.
Remember, no dog is truly allergy-free. Hypoallergenic simply means they reduce an allergic reaction.
Hybrid dogs were initially created with hypoallergenic in mind. For example, Golden Retrievers shed a lot and are not considered hypoallergenic. So, if you cross a Golden Retriever with a Poodle to get a Goldendoodle, you may have a hypoallergenic breed.
The problem with this is that genetics will always have the final say.
For instance, the first generation of Goldendoodles might take after the Golden Retriever parent more so than the Poodle parent. Thus, they won’t be considered hypoallergenic and can still shed a reasonable amount.
So, if you search for a mixed breed solely for hypoallergenic purposes, remember that you might not get a pup that is as low-shedding as you believe.
What To Do If You’re Allergic To Your Dog
If you’re allergic to dogs, then there’s not much you can do to change that. All you can do is lessen your allergies as best as you can. One way to do that is to get a hypoallergenic dog breed.
However, no matter what type of breed you have – hypoallergenic or not, purebred or crossbreed – there are additional ways to keep your allergies in check.
For example, good housekeeping habits are ideal to care for yourself and your house. If you deep clean your home about once a week or even every other week, you can keep the dog dander at bay.
You can spot clean, as well. Vacuums can be bought with special filters specific to allergies and asthma. So, if your doggo frequents a specific spot in the house, you can go over it with a vacuum daily or every other day.
In addition, if your pup sleeps in bed with you, you can change your bed sheets two to three times per week.
Question Corner: FAQs About Hypoallergenic Dogs
If you’re looking for more information about hypoallergenic dog breeds, then look at the frequently asked questions about hypoallergenic dogs answered below.
Are Cavalier King Charles Spaniels Hypoallergenic?
No, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are not hypoallergenic. This toy breed requires regular grooming and brushing since their coat does shed a lot. However, they can be mixed with hypoallergenic breeds for a chance of reducing their shedding.
Are Miniature Dachshunds Hypoallergenic?
No, Miniature Dachshunds do not have the hypoallergenic label. They can come in two different sizes so they might shed less than a larger dog. However, they also have three coat types: smooth (short), long, and wired. All of these coats may shed a moderate amount.
Would A Terrier Mix Hound Dog Be Hypoallergenic?
This type of mixed-breed might be hypoallergenic. Remember, there’s no guarantee of having a hypoallergenic dog, and a hypoallergenic dog won’t be completely allergy-free. However, terriers and hounds mixed have a chance of being hypoallergenic, depending on the breeds crossed together.
What Are The Best Hypoallergenic Dogs For A Small House?
You don’t need a small dog for a small house. As long as they get their exercise every day and have a calm temperament, you can get any size. So, some hypoallergenic dogs, no matter their size, that are best suited for a tiny house are the Poodle (any size), Bernedoodle, Affenpinscher, Bichon Frise, or the Chinese Crested.
Are Hypoallergenic Dogs Low-Maintenance For Grooming?
Unfortunately, no. Some dogs, even hypoallergenic, may require regular grooming and trips to the grooming salon. It will depend on the breed and coat type. If you have a mixed breed, it will depend on the kind of grooming its parents needed.
Is Hypoallergenic The Way To Go?
If you have a dog allergy, then getting a hypoallergenic breed certainly won’t hurt. But remember that they won’t completely clear your sinuses. However, if you keep your dog well-groomed and the shedding under control, then your allergies should diminish with a hypoallergenic dog.
Rachel Poli is a content writer and author, but her real job is being a stay-at-home pet mom. Her zoo currently consists of a dog, a cat, two turtles, and two fish tanks. She’s also an avid pet sitter for a few local families, caring for various animals.
After realizing how little information there is for pet sitters on the internet, Rachel decided to start her own animal website. She strives to educate pet parents and pet sitters about the overall care of our furry friends.